Global Market Update

Advisory Bazaar Info Services

Global markets traded cautiously on Friday as investors monitored rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, higher crude oil prices, and awaited the U.S. non-farm payrolls report for further direction on the Federal Reserve’s interest rate outlook.

U.S. equity markets ended on a flat to negative note, while European markets, except the FTSE, closed higher. Most major Asian equity markets were trading in positive territory, although overall sentiment remained cautious. GIFT Nifty indicated a weak opening for Indian equities, trading around 35–45 points lower.

The White House announced a 15% tariff and imposed price floors on products made from polysilicon, a key raw material used in semiconductors and solar panels that is predominantly produced in China. The move is expected to further intensify trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies.

U.S. Treasury futures declined as rising energy prices revived concerns that the Federal Reserve may need to keep interest rates higher for longer. The benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury yield held near 4.68% after climbing seven basis points in the previous session.

Crude oil prices extended their gains after reports that Iran attacked hostile targets in the Strait of Hormuz, increasing uncertainty over one of the world’s most critical shipping routes. Brent crude traded above $83 per barrel, supporting energy markets but adding to global inflation concerns.

Market participants will closely watch the U.S. jobs report later today, as the data could provide important clues on the Federal Reserve’s next policy move and influence global financial markets.